The newly elected US president has taken up a lot of time in Canadian media. Since his inauguration, he has successfully made a number of “faux pas” that have made Canadians and Americans shake their heads in disbelief, and in some cases, disgust.
Trump’s determination to keep campaign promises led to knee jerk
The newly elected US president has taken up a lot of time in Canadian media. Since his inauguration, he has successfully made a number of “faux pas” that have made Canadians and Americans shake their heads in disbelief, and in some cases, disgust.
Trump’s determination to keep campaign promises led to knee jerk
reactions to rulings instead of thoughtful and researched planning. By doing the former, the president has demonstrated he is a politician of a different color.
According to some TV media, Trumps’s attitudes and policies have Canadians demanding that P.M. Trudeau get tough with this larger than life personality to the south. Anyone who has had the opportunity to work in collaboration or in a team situation understands the need for tact and diplomacy when the goal is to develop effective communication and positive relationships. Again, knee jerk reactions coming from the PM’s office is not the type of politics we elected Justin Trudeau to engage in. Like the saying “Actions speak louder than words”, Canadians should favor actions, not hollow, bully-ish talk.
In the past few weeks, we have welcomed refugees crossing the Manitoba and Quebec land borders between Canada and the US. This is an example of an action. Ensuring we don’t change our immigration laws or expectations in light of a US travel ban is also an example of action. Last but not least, standing in support of our Muslim brothers and sisters after a mass shooting in a Quebec City mosque is an ultimate example of action that defends the values of all Canadians.
Through these public displays that define us as Canadians, WE, politicians and ordinary citizens alike, have sent a message that is loud and clear, without picking a fight with the US or messing around in their homeland politics or security.
We live in a country that is revered around the world because we are known for being warm, welcoming, tolerant and acceptant. Our multi-ethnicity and the way it has become an integral part of the web of Canadian society is a model around the globe. I am confident Trudeau will ensure the relationship with the US continues to be amicable and in the best interest of Canadians. Remember, the US is as dependent on us as we are on them. Our approach must not be confrontational, because let’s face it, we all know, the only way to shut down a bully is to not act like one.
Kathryn Dupuis
LITCHFIELD
